Spiritual Reflection: 

When God calls us to something new, whether it’s starting a ministry, stepping into a new role, or pursuing a dream He’s placed on our hearts, it’s easy to rush forward with excitement. But Jesus reminds us in Luke 14:28 of the importance of preparation: to “sit down first and count the cost.” The call is exciting, but it also requires careful planning and readiness.

Preparation isn’t just practical, it’s spiritual. It shows trust in God to not only start the work but to finish it well. Sometimes we jump in without considering the resources, time, or strength we’ll need. But God wants us to be equipped for the long haul. Proverbs 6:6-8 says, “Go to the ant, you sluggard! Consider her ways and be wise, which, having no captain, overseer or ruler, provides her supplies in the summer, and gathers her food in the harvest.” This doesn’t mean we won’t face challenges along the way, but the more we prepare, the better we can stand firm when those challenges come.

Maybe you’ve experienced times where you stepped into something and wished you had prepared more. That’s not a failure—it’s a lesson in trusting God’s timing and wisdom. Moving forward, you can take that experience and allow it to shape how you approach new seasons. God calls us to faith and action, but He also calls us to wise preparation so that when the time comes, we are ready to fully embrace the work He has for us.

Father, thank You for calling me to new things. Help me to prepare my heart, my mind, and my resources for the task ahead. Give me wisdom to plan well and the faith to trust in Your guidance. In Jesus’ name, Amen!